Photo of author Crystal Dilworth

Crystal Dilworth

Fail Lab is hosted by Crystal Dilworth, a Ph.D. candidate in molecular neuroscience at Caltech. Before graduate school, Crystal trained as a professional dancer at the prestigious Ailey School of dance in New York City and she is an outspoken advocate for scientists, celebrating and nurturing their many passions. Now a rising star in science communication, Crystal first made waves in neon high heels while presenting a TEDxYouth talk on stereotypes in science. As a scientist and communicator, she hopes to chip away the mystique of the academic "ivory tower" and reveal researchers and their work as human, relevant, and "cool".

Latest Posts From Crystal

Will AI Destroy All Humans, or Help Us Build a Better Future?
Artificial Intelligence
By Multiple Authors

Will AI Destroy All Humans, or Help Us Build a Better Future?

The debate over the impact of artificial intelligence won't go away any time soon. So, which side are you on?

Chernobyl's Massive Radiation Shield Is Preventing Nuclear Fallout
Space & Innovation
By Multiple Authors

Chernobyl's Massive Radiation Shield Is Preventing Nuclear Fallout

Chernobyl's New Safe Confinement is protecting the world from another nuclear disaster.

This Invisible Light Shows Us What Our Eyes Can't See
Space & Innovation
By Multiple Authors

This Invisible Light Shows Us What Our Eyes Can't See

Infrared light is all around us even though we cannot see it. Find out how this invisible radiation impacts our everyday lives.

Getting A DNA Test Could Keep You From Your Dream Job
Health
By Crystal Dilworth

Getting A DNA Test Could Keep You From Your Dream Job

Genetic traits are already being used as selection criteria for some jobs, but do we really want DNA test results on our resumes?

When Did Environmentalism Become So Political?
Conservation
By Multiple Authors

When Did Environmentalism Become So Political?

When you think of environmentalism, does Richard Nixon come to mind?

You Now Have A New Organ: Meet The Mesentery!
Earth & Conservation
By Multiple Authors

You Now Have A New Organ: Meet The Mesentery!

Why did it take us so long to identify a new human organ? What does the mesentery do and how often are we "discovering" new organs?

You Don't Even Want To Know About Bacteria On The Space Station
Earth & Conservation
By Multiple Authors

You Don't Even Want To Know About Bacteria On The Space Station

Think the ISS is squeaky clean...think again! Bacteria like Staphylococcaceae and Enterobacteriaceae absolutely thrive in space stations!

Can Science Determine When Jesus Was Actually Born?
Earth & Conservation
By Multiple Authors

Can Science Determine When Jesus Was Actually Born?

What was the 'Star of Bethlehem' and was it really shining on Jesus' birthday? Astronomers offer some theories.

If Antlers Are So Heavy, Why Do Animals Have Them?
Earth & Conservation
By Multiple Authors

If Antlers Are So Heavy, Why Do Animals Have Them?

Sure, Rudolph has a red nose, but does it have antlers? Is ornamentation even beneficial to any species?

How Scientists Can Manipulate Memories With Light
Earth & Conservation
By Crystal Dilworth

How Scientists Can Manipulate Memories With Light

Scientists have found a way to trick the brain using light and optogenetics. What implications could this have for the future of medicine?

How Scientists Can Manipulate Memories With Light
Space & Innovation
By Crystal Dilworth

How Scientists Can Manipulate Memories With Light

Scientists have found a way to trick the brain using light and optogenetics. What implications could this have for the future of medicine?

Here's Why You Should Have A Work Spouse
Earth & Conservation
By Multiple Authors

Here's Why You Should Have A Work Spouse

Studies have found that having a close friendship with someone at work can actually improve your job performance. Why exactly is that?